Poor Economics: A Radical Rethinking of the Way to Fight Global Poverty challenges conventional wisdom on global poverty, offering an evidence-based, pragmatic approach to economic development. Written by Nobel laureates Abhijit V. Banerjee and Esther Duflo, this book dismantles grandiose aid theories and market-based solutions, instead advocating for small, incremental changes that can drive meaningful improvements in the lives of the poor.
Through rigorous randomized controlled trials (RCTs) across five continents, the authors uncover how the poor make economic decisions regarding education, healthcare, savings, and entrepreneurship—and why policies often fail when they overlook behavioral nuances. Their findings reveal counterintuitive but highly effective strategies that challenge traditional development narratives.
For private equity professionals, impact investors, and CXOs, this book provides actionable insights into economic behavior at the grassroots level, making it an essential read for those seeking sustainable, high-impact investment strategies in emerging markets. It sheds light on how small interventions—rather than sweeping reforms—can generate scalable, long-term value for communities and businesses alike.
With data-driven insights, compelling storytelling, and real-world applications, Poor Economics is an indispensable guide for leaders looking to rethink poverty alleviation, refine investment strategies, and drive measurable impact in the global economy.